Bridging Oncology and Infectious Disease: Examining the Role of Escherichia coli Resistance in Cancer Treatment
Azizur Rahman1*
Microbial Bioactives 5(1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/microbbioacts.5110259
Submitted: 04 January 2022 Revised: 11 March 2022 Published: 14 March 2022
Abstract
Cancer treatment has long been challenged by infections, particularly those caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Among these, Escherichia coli (E. coli) stands out as a major contributor to secondary infections in cancer patients due to its ability to acquire resistance mechanisms. The increasing resistance of E. coli to antibiotics has posed a serious threat to immunocompromised individuals undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted treatments. This review explores the intersection between oncology and infectious disease by analyzing the role of E. coli resistance in cancer treatment. Specifically, it examines how resistance mechanisms in E. coli contribute to treatment complications, the effects of chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression on E. coli infections, and the impact of antibiotic use in cancer care. Moreover, this article delves into emerging strategies to mitigate the risks associated with E. coli resistance, including bacteriophage therapy, probiotic interventions, and novel antimicrobial approaches.With E. coli being a significant nosocomial pathogen, cancer patients are increasingly vulnerable to infections that can lead to treatment delays, increased hospitalization, and mortality. Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and mucosal barrier injury create an environment conducive to bacterial translocation, allowing resistant strains of E. coli to cause life-threatening infections. Furthermore, the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics in oncology wards has fueled the development of MDR E. coli, making conventional antibiotic regimens less effective. The need for novel antimicrobial strategies is crucial, as reliance on existing antibiotics has proven unsustainable. Recent research highlights promising approaches, including phage therapy, immune modulation, and microbiome-targeted therapies, which may help counteract E. coli resistance in cancer treatment.This review underscores the urgent need to bridge oncology and infectious disease research to develop integrated solutions for managing E. coli-related infections in cancer patients. Understanding the interplay between E. coli resistance and cancer treatment will be instrumental in designing effective therapeutic interventions, improving patient outcomes, and reducing treatment-associated complications. By addressing these challenges through a multidisciplinary approach, medical researchers and clinicians can enhance the efficacy of cancer therapies while mitigating the risks posed by antibiotic-resistant E. coli.
Keywords: Cancer treatment, Escherichia coli, Antibiotic resistance, Multidrug-resistant bacteria, Immunosuppression.
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